Depression is a common mental health issue, which affects people of all ages, gender and social status. It is caused due to various reasons such as genetics, environmental factors or personal experiences.
It can make it difficult to concentrate and be productive at work. Yoga is an excellent way to manage depression. Practicing yoga daily can boost your mood, increase energy levels and help you to focus. Here are five yoga poses that can help you beat depression in the office.
1. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
This pose can help to calm anxiety and improve circulation. Start by sitting on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you. Reach your arms up towards the sky and then fold forward, reaching for your toes.
Hold the pose for 30-60 seconds, breathing deeply through your nose. Release the pose slowly, vertebra by vertebra, and then repeat.
2. Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Child’s pose can help to release tension in the back, shoulders and neck. Start by kneeling on the floor and then sit back on your heels. Stretch your arms out in front of you and then lower your forehead to the floor.
Hold the pose for 30-60 seconds, breathing deeply through your nose. Release the pose slowly and then repeat.
3. Eagle Pose (Garudasana)
Eagle pose can help to release tension in the shoulders and improve balance. Start by standing tall with your arms at your sides. Then, bring your right arm over your left arm and wrap your forearms around each other.
Bend your knees slightly and then raise your left leg, wrapping it around your right leg. Hold the pose for 30-60 seconds, breathing deeply through your nose. Release the pose slowly and then repeat on the other side.
4. Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)
Tree pose can help to improve balance and focus. Start by standing tall with your arms at your sides. Then, bring your right foot up and place your foot on your left thigh. Press your foot into your thigh and your thigh into your foot.
Balance on your left foot and hold the pose for 30-60 seconds, breathing deeply through your nose. Release the pose slowly and then repeat on the other side.
5. Corpse Pose (Savasana)
This pose can help to relax the mind and body. Start by lying flat on your back with your arms at your sides. Close your eyes and breathe deeply through your nose. Try to focus on your breath and clear your mind of any thoughts.
Hold the pose for several minutes and then slowly wiggle your fingers and toes to wake up your body.
Conclusion
These yoga poses can be practiced daily in the office or at home to help manage depression. They can help to boost your mood, increase energy levels and improve focus.
It is important to remember that practicing yoga is not a substitute for seeking medical treatment for depression. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional.